Causes

Blood passes through small filters in the kidneys. Changes in the blood vessels due to diabetes can cause damage to these filters. Blood sugar levels that are not well-controlled can have the greatest impact on the kidney filters.

Over time, the damage to the filters increases. The damaged filters cannot clean the blood properly and protein from the blood can leak into the urine. If left untreated, this can lead to kidney failure.

Symptoms

Symptoms may not appear until the kidney damage is severe. Symptoms may include:

Fluid buildup may appear as swelling in feet or hands

Weakness

Loss of appetite

Difficulty sleeping

Confusion and trouble concentrating

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.

Your bodily fluids may be tested. This can be done with:

Blood tests

Urine tests

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you.

Treatment is aimed at preventing or slowing further kidney damage. It may involve lifestyle changes and medications. Your doctor will also work with you to help control your diabetes and blood pressure. This may help prevent further kidney damage.

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes that will help control your blood sugar and blood pressure include:

Lifestyle changes that will help control your blood sugar and blood pressure include:

Medications

Your doctor may prescribe medications to help control blood sugar and protect your kidneys, such as:

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors)

Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)

Treatments for Kidney Failure

If the damage to your kidneys progresses to kidney failure, you may need
dialysis
. Dialysis takes over for your kidneys. Blood passes out of your body into a machine. The machine filters waste out of the blood then pumps blood back to you.

Revisions

Please note, not all procedures included in this resource library are available at Allegiance Health or performed by Allegiance Health physicians.

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